Leviticus 7:37

Translation
King James Version
This is the law of the burnt offering, of the meat offering, and of the sin offering, and of the trespass offering, and of the consecrations, and of the sacrifice of the peace offerings;
Ask
KJV (with Strong's)
This is the law H8451 of the burnt offering H5930, of the meat offering H4503, and of the sin offering H2403, and of the trespass offering H817, and of the consecrations H4394, and of the sacrifice H2077 of the peace offerings H8002;
Ask
Complete Jewish Bible
This is the law for the burnt offering, the grain offering, the sin offering, the guilt offering, the consecration offering and the sacrifice of peace offerings
Ask
Berean Standard Bible
This is the law of the burnt offering, the grain offering, the sin offering, the guilt offering, the ordination offering, and the peace offering,
Ask
American Standard Version
This is the law of the burnt-offering, of the meal-offering, and of the sin-offering, and of the trespass-offering, and of the consecration, and of the sacrifice of peace-offerings;
Ask
World English Bible Messianic
This is the law of the burnt offering, of the meal offering, and of the sin offering, and of the trespass offering, and of the consecration, and of the sacrifice of peace offerings;
Ask
Geneva Bible (1599)
This is also the lawe of the burnt offring of the meate offring, and of the sinne offring, and of the trespasse offring, and of the consecrations, and of the peace offrings,
Ask
Young's Literal Translation
This is the law for burnt-offering, for present, and for sin-offering, and for guilt-offering, and for consecrations, and for a sacrifice of the peace-offerings,
Ask
See also
Exodus 29:1Leviticus 6:20Leviticus 7:7Leviticus 1:1Leviticus 5:6Exodus 29:38Exodus 29:42
In the KJVVerse 2,917 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Leviticus 7:37 serves as a climactic and comprehensive summary statement, meticulously concluding the extensive legal instructions concerning the various sacrificial offerings detailed in the initial chapters of the book. This verse systematically enumerates the six primary categories of offerings—the burnt offering, grain offering, sin offering, trespass offering, consecration offering, and peace offering—thereby encapsulating the foundational elements of Israelite worship, atonement, and fellowship with God as divinely ordained through Moses. It underscores the comprehensive nature and divine authority of the sacrificial system, designed to facilitate a holy people's approach to a holy God.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Leviticus 7:37 functions as the formal conclusion to a significant literary unit encompassing Leviticus 1 through Leviticus 7. This expansive section provides detailed, prescriptive instructions for both the priests and the people regarding the proper execution and theological purpose of each major type of sacrifice. Chapters 1-5 introduce the offerings from the perspective of the worshiper, outlining what to bring and why, primarily focusing on the layperson's responsibility. Chapters 6-7 then shift focus, providing specific regulations for the priests concerning their handling of the offerings, their designated portions, and the sanctity required in their sacred duties. Verse 37, therefore, acts as a legal colophon or concluding formula, certifying that the preceding seven chapters constitute the complete "law" (Hebrew: torah) for these foundational acts of worship, emphasizing their divine origin and comprehensive scope. It marks a crucial transition point before the narrative shifts to the actual implementation of these laws during the ordination of Aaron and his sons in Leviticus 8.

  • Historical & Cultural Context: These sacrificial laws were given to Moses at Mount Sinai shortly after Israel's miraculous deliverance from Egyptian bondage and the establishment of the Mosaic Covenant. The Israelites, newly formed into a nation, were transitioning from nomadic freedom to a structured, covenantal relationship with a holy God. They had witnessed God's awesome presence and absolute holiness at Sinai, and these sacrificial laws provided the divinely appointed means for a sinful people to approach and maintain fellowship with a holy God. The Tabernacle, which had just been completed (as detailed in Exodus 40), served as the central place of worship where these offerings would be performed by the newly consecrated priesthood. While sacrificial systems were common in the ancient Near East, Yahweh's laws distinguished themselves by their ethical demands, the emphasis on atonement for sin, and the underlying theological truth of God's absolute holiness and justice, contrasting sharply with pagan practices. These offerings were essential for the spiritual health and communal identity of Israel, providing a tangible framework for confession, expiation, dedication, and thanksgiving within their covenant relationship.

  • Key Themes: Leviticus 7:37, by summarizing the various offerings, contributes significantly to several overarching themes present in the book of Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of Holiness, emphasizing God's absolute purity and the necessity for His people to be holy in order to approach Him. The meticulous nature of the laws underscores that access to God is not casual but requires a divinely appointed means of Atonement and Purification for sin, particularly through the shedding of blood, as seen in the sin and trespass offerings (Leviticus 4). The offerings also highlight the theme of Covenant Relationship, providing the framework for Israel to maintain their unique bond with Yahweh. Furthermore, they teach Worship and Dedication, demonstrating how the Israelites were to express their devotion, gratitude, and surrender to God through acts of sacrifice. Finally, the inclusion of the peace offering underscores the theme of Fellowship and Communion with God, where the worshiper could partake in a meal with God, symbolizing restored peace and intimacy (Leviticus 3).

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Law (Hebrew, tôwrâh', H8451): (tôwrâh), this term, often translated as "law," carries a broader meaning than mere legalistic rules. It signifies divine instruction, teaching, or guidance. In this context, it emphasizes that the detailed procedures for the offerings are not human inventions but God's authoritative, comprehensive, and perfect revelation for how His people to approach Him, seek atonement, and live in covenant relationship. It points to the divine origin and binding nature of these sacrificial ordinances.
  • Meat offering (Hebrew, minchâh', H4503): (minchâh), while the KJV translates this as "meat offering," the Hebrew minchah (often rendered "grain offering" or "meal offering") refers to a non-animal sacrifice, typically consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense. This offering was a voluntary gift, acknowledging God's provision and symbolizing dedication of one's labor and sustenance to the Lord. It often accompanied animal sacrifices, signifying a complete act of worship and dependence.
  • Consecrations (Hebrew, milluʼ', H4394): (milluʼ), this unique term literally means "fillings" or "installations," referring specifically to the offerings made during the ordination ceremony of priests. As seen in Leviticus 8:22-29, these offerings involved specific animal sacrifices and portions placed in the hands of the priests, symbolizing their being "filled" or "installed" into their sacred office and dedicated wholly to God's service. It highlights the special sanctity and divine authorization required for those who would mediate between God and His people.

Verse Breakdown

  • "This [is] the law of the burnt offering,": This clause introduces the first and most fundamental offering, the 'olah (burnt offering). It was a voluntary sacrifice, entirely consumed by fire on the altar, symbolizing complete dedication, surrender, and general atonement for unintentional sins. It represented the worshiper's total devotion and commitment to God.
  • "of the meat offering,": This refers to the minchah (grain offering), a non-bloody offering of fine flour, oil, and frankincense. It was an act of thanksgiving and dedication, acknowledging God's provision and consecrating the fruits of one's labor and sustenance to Him. It often accompanied the burnt offering and peace offering, signifying a holistic act of worship.
  • "and of the sin offering,": The chatta't (sin offering) was a mandatory offering for unintentional sins committed by individuals or the community. Its primary purpose was expiation and purification, cleansing the worshiper and the sanctuary from the defilement of sin, thereby restoring fellowship with God. It underscored the gravity of sin and the necessity of blood atonement.
  • "and of the trespass offering,": The 'asham (trespass or guilt offering) was required for specific transgressions, particularly those involving a breach of trust, misappropriation of holy things, or damage to another person's property. It often involved restitution in addition to the sacrifice, emphasizing the need to make amends for specific wrongs and restore what was taken or damaged.
  • "and of the consecrations,": This refers to the millu'im (ordination offerings), specifically those performed during the installation of priests into their sacred office. These offerings, detailed in Leviticus 8, were crucial for sanctifying Aaron and his sons, setting them apart exclusively for service in the Tabernacle and enabling them to mediate between God and Israel.
  • "and of the sacrifice of the peace offerings;": The shelamim (peace offering) was a voluntary offering made for thanksgiving, to fulfill a vow, or as a freewill offering. It was unique in that a portion was given to God, a portion to the priests, and the remainder was eaten by the worshiper and his family in a communal meal, symbolizing fellowship, restored peace, and harmonious communion with God.

Literary Devices

Leviticus 7:37 employs several significant literary devices to achieve its purpose as a concluding statement. Primarily, it functions as a Summary or Recapitulation, providing a concise yet comprehensive list of all the major offerings detailed in the preceding chapters. This acts as a formal concluding statement, reinforcing the scope and importance of the entire sacrificial system. The verse also utilizes Enumeration, systematically listing each distinct type of offering, which serves to emphasize the unique nature and specific purpose of each sacrifice while collectively highlighting the multifaceted ways in which Israel was to approach God. Furthermore, the introductory phrase "This [is] the law of..." acts as a Legal Formula or Colophon, formally concluding the legislative section and lending divine authority and finality to the instructions. This precise structure underscores the meticulous and divinely ordained nature of the entire sacrificial system, leaving no doubt about its comprehensive and authoritative character as God's revealed will.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Leviticus 7:37, by summarizing the various offerings, profoundly emphasizes God's unwavering holiness, His meticulous demands for worship, and His gracious provision for atonement and fellowship. The distinct purposes of each offering—from complete dedication (burnt offering) to expiation for sin (sin and trespass offerings) to thanksgiving and communion (peace offering)—reveal a comprehensive divine strategy for a sinful people to draw near to a holy God. This system, though complex, was designed to teach Israel about the gravity of sin, the necessity of substitutionary atonement, and the joy of restored relationship. It underscored that access to God was not arbitrary but required a divinely appointed means, foreshadowing the ultimate, perfect sacrifice.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

While the specific animal sacrifices of Leviticus are no longer practiced by believers today, the spiritual truths they embody remain eternally relevant and profoundly impactful for our understanding of God and our walk with Him. This summary verse reminds us of God's unwavering holiness and the profound seriousness of sin, which always requires a divine remedy and a perfect sacrifice. It compels us to reflect on the comprehensive nature of Christ's work, which perfectly fulfills every aspect of these ancient shadows, making full and final atonement for us. Our worship, like the offerings, should be marked by intentionality, dedication, and a deep understanding of what it means to approach a holy God who has made a way for us. We are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, acknowledging Christ's finished work and living lives of thanksgiving, confession, and fellowship with God and one another. Understanding the "law" of these offerings deepens our appreciation for the singular, all-sufficient sacrifice of Jesus Christ, prompting us to live out the implications of His redemptive work in every area of our lives.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does the detailed nature of the Levitical laws, summarized in this verse, inform your understanding of God's character and His expectations for worship and holiness?
  • Considering the various types of offerings (burnt, sin, peace, etc.), which aspects of Christ's work do you see most clearly foreshadowed in each, and how does that deepen your gratitude for His comprehensive sacrifice?
  • In what practical ways can believers today offer "spiritual sacrifices" (as mentioned in 1 Peter 2:5) that reflect the dedication, repentance, and thanksgiving seen in the Old Testament offerings?

FAQ

What is the significance of Leviticus 7:37 being a "summary" verse?

Answer: Leviticus 7:37 serves as a crucial concluding statement for the detailed instructions on the sacrificial system found in Leviticus 1-7. Its significance lies in formally consolidating and affirming the divine authority and comprehensive scope of these laws. By listing all six major categories of offerings, it acts as a legal colophon, indicating that the preceding chapters constitute the complete "law" (Hebrew: torah) for these essential acts of worship. This summary underscores the meticulousness of God's requirements and the foundational role of these sacrifices in Israel's covenant relationship with Him, preparing the way for their practical implementation.

What does the KJV phrase "meat offering" actually mean, and why is it important to understand?

Answer: The KJV phrase "meat offering" is a somewhat archaic translation of the Hebrew word minchah (מִנְחָה). In 17th-century English, "meat" could refer to food in general, not exclusively animal flesh. The minchah was, in fact, a "grain offering" or "meal offering," consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, not animal flesh. Understanding this distinction is important for accurate interpretation, as it clarifies that not all offerings involved blood sacrifice. The grain offering symbolized the dedication of one's labor, sustenance, and the fruits of the land to God, often accompanying animal sacrifices to represent a more complete act of worship and dependence on divine provision, as seen in Leviticus 2.

Are the laws of these offerings still relevant for Christians today, given that Jesus fulfilled the Law?

Answer: While Christians are no longer required to perform these animal sacrifices because Jesus Christ's perfect, once-for-all sacrifice fulfilled and superseded the Old Testament sacrificial system (as highlighted in Hebrews 10:1-18), the spiritual principles and theological truths embedded in these laws remain profoundly relevant. They teach us about the holiness of God, the seriousness of sin, the necessity of atonement, the concept of substitution, and the importance of dedication, thanksgiving, and fellowship with God. These ancient shadows point forward to the person and work of Christ, helping us to grasp the depth and breadth of His redemptive work and how we are now called to offer ourselves as "living sacrifices" (Romans 12:1) in worship and service.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Leviticus 7:37, in its comprehensive summary of the sacrificial system, serves as a profound prophetic blueprint pointing directly to the multifaceted and all-sufficient work of Jesus Christ. Each offering, though distinct in its immediate purpose, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Him. The burnt offering, symbolizing complete dedication and general atonement, is perfectly embodied in Christ's absolute surrender to the Father's will, even to death on the cross, a sacrifice entirely consumed for our sakes (Hebrews 10:7). The grain offering, representing dedication of labor and provision, is fulfilled in Christ, the "bread of life" (John 6:35), who offered His perfect life and service as a pleasing aroma to God. The sin offering and trespass offering, designed for expiation and restitution for specific sins, are completely satisfied by Christ, who became sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21) and paid the full penalty for our transgressions, reconciling us to God through His blood (Colossians 1:20). The consecrations, which set priests apart for holy service, are fulfilled in Christ, our great High Priest, who consecrated Himself once for all time, enabling us, through Him, to draw near to God with confidence (Hebrews 7:26-27 and Hebrews 10:19-20). Finally, the peace offering, signifying fellowship and communion with God, culminates in Christ, who is our peace (Ephesians 2:14), having broken down the dividing wall of hostility and established true, lasting fellowship between God and humanity through His blood (Romans 5:1). Thus, Leviticus 7:37 is not merely an ancient list but a profound testament to the comprehensive and all-sufficient redemptive work of our Savior.

Copy as

Commentary on Leviticus 7 verses 35–38

Here is the conclusion of these laws concerning the sacrifices, though some of them are afterwards repeated and explained. The are to be considered, 1. As a grant to the priests, Lev 7:35, Lev 7:36. In the day they were ordained to that work and office this provision was made for their comfortable maintenance. Note, God will take care that those who are employed for him be well paid and well provided for. Those that receive the anointing of the Spirit to minister unto the Lord shall have their portion, and it shall be a worthy portion, out of the offerings of the Lord; for God's work is its own wages, and there is a present reward of obedience in obedience. 2. As a statute for ever to the people, that they should bring these offerings according to the rules prescribed, and cheerfully give the priests their share out of them. God commanded the children of Israel to offer their oblations, Lev 7:38. Note, The solemn acts religious worship are commanded. They are not things that we are left to our liberty in, and which we may do or not do at our pleasure; but we are under indispensable obligations to perform them in their season, and it is at our peril if we omit them. The observance of the laws of Christ cannot be less necessary than the observance of the laws of Moses was.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 35–38. Public domain.
Copy as
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
Copy as

Continue studying Leviticus 7:37 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.

Read & Compare

Commentaries

Original Language & Research

Sermons, Hymns & Audio

TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.